US military bans unofficial travel to Brussels

The U.S. European Command today restricted troop travel in the wake of terrorist attacks in Brussels, announcing a ban on “unofficial travel” to the Belgian capital “until further notice.”

The command also acknowledged in its announcement that a U.S. service member and his family “were caught up in this tragedy at the Brussels airport,” but didn’t release details of their injuries because of privacy concerns.

The travel restrictions are a “precautionary measure” that apply to U.S. military personnel, Defense Department civilian employees, contractors and command-sponsored dependents and family members. The restrictions don’t apply to military personnel assigned to diplomatic posts in Belgium, the command said.

Personnel on official travel or emergency leave to Brussels will require the approval of a general or flag officer.

“My thoughts and prayers go out to our military family, the people of Brussels and all those impacted by these horrific terror attacks,” European Command chief Gen. Philip Breedlove said in a statement. “We will assist Belgium in any way our military can – we strongly condemn these attacks and will continue to stand by our NATO Allies and partners to defeat these terrorist who threaten our freedoms and our way of life.”